Night of the Twisters by Ivy Ruckman

Title: Night of the Twisters Author: Ivy Ruckman Genre: Realistic Fiction This book was based on a real life event (thus the genre) that occurred in Grand Island, Nebraska. Though this book starts out kind of slow, it truly picks up about 1/4 of the way through and you won't be able to put it down until you read that last page. While this book is a quick read, it will give young readers the suspension they need to keep them turning the pages. This would make a great addition to a unit on Nebraska, or even a science unit. The interdisciplinary possibilities of this book are endless. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars. It should be a staple in all upper elementary classrooms. Chapter Book #2

Blackwater by Eve Bunting

Title: Blackwater Author: Eve Bunting Genre: Realistic Fiction As a young adult novel, this book did a great job of creating suspense and giving young readers a chance to think critically and create the story lines in their heads. From the beginning, this book grips readers not only with suspense, but with an emotional attachment to characters taken by the blackwater. This book kept my attention for weeks to come. With a surprise ending and a charming set of characters, this book is a top notch book that all upper elementary students should read for fun. I would give this book 4.5 out of 5 stars. It should be a staple of all upper elementary classrooms. Chapter Book #1